Incredible architecture

Towns

Towns in Derbyshire and the Peak District are wonderful places to explore, full of interesting shops, local cafes, pubs and restaurants. Some of the best-loved towns in Derbyshire and the Peak District area include Matlock, Belper, Ashbourne and Buxton.

Matlock is a place full of history; once an old spa-town, it has been popular for both residents and tourists since the 1800s when therapeutic hydros (specialist spa hotels where one could ‘take the water’) were built with natural thermic springs. It is also known as a town with rich roots in industrial history, due to the nearby mills in Cromford and the textiles designer John Smedley setting up his factory in the town.

Belper also has a strong sense of industrial heritage as it was in fact, the first Cotton Mill Town, created by the Strutt family in the 1780s. So to walk down it’s cobbled streets is to trace the footsteps of the factory community. Now embellished with independent shops, stylish cafes and Belper’s River Garden, Belper is a great Derbyshire town to visit.

Buxton is another well-loved town in Derbyshire. Best known for its natural springs, this spa town is also impressive as it’s the highest market town in the UK, being over 300m above sea level. Buxton is home to numerous shops, cafes, places to stay, a fantastic show cavern and, of course, the Buxton Opera House.

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The highest market town in England; Buxton in Derbyshire is deservedly renowned for its Georgian and Victorian architecture - much of it linked with the 5th Duke of Devonshire's ambitions to create a spa town to rival Bath back in the 18th century...

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Once famed for its hydro and spa treatments, Matlock's central location, scenic surroundings and public transport links make it a popular base for exploring the best of the Peak District and Derbyshire.

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Chapel-en-le-Frith originated from a small chapel, built in 1225 by the keepers of the Royal Forest, and is the historic Capital of the Peak. Today, the town of Chapel-en-le-Frith is a small rural town with a historic core.

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Overall Winner of the Heart of England in Bloom competition, from Spring right through to Autumn Biddulph is awash with colour. Flower beds, troughs and baskets line the streets making this an extremely pretty town.

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Discover Cheadle, home to 'Pugin's Gem', one of Britain's finest churches and gateway to the beautiful Churnet Valley steeped in industrial heritage. Visit the restored Victorian market hall or follow the art trail of unusual sculptures.

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The town of New Mills is in an area of spectacular natural beauty standing above a natural rocky gorge known as The Torrs where the River Sett joins the River Goyt. The Torrs is now a park. New Mills is home to Swizzels Matlow sweet company